Godrej Appliances Enhances Festive Offerings with 5-Year Warranty on Split ACs, No Hidden Costs

New Delhi, 9th October 2024: The Appliances business of Godrej & Boyce, part of Godrej Enterprises Group, announced its festive offers for the consumers taking forward the philosophy of “Things Made Thoughtfully” from products to brand’s festive season offerings as well. The brand has kept user experience at the heart of its festive promise.

On one hand, with better financing options, customers are increasingly willing to upgrade and invest in premium appliances and appliances’ life has witnessed a decline; on the other hand, research indicates that warranty, durability and after sales service continues to be key factors for consumers when buying appliances. This explains the growing Annual Maintenance Contract (AMC) sales in the industry particularly in categories like air conditioners which witness heavy usage given the high heat levels in the country. Unfortunately, hidden charges and complex terms in many of the warranties available in the market detract from the consumer’s long-term experience.

Addressing this need, Godrej Appliances has introduced a 5-Year Comprehensive Warranty for Split Air Conditioners at no extra cost. This free warranty, worth ₹7990/-, offers complete coverage with no hidden fees, no registrations, ensures that customers are protected against additional costs like gas charging, technician visits etc. The goal is simple: to provide a worry-free, delightful experience across the product’s life.

Apart from this, the brand also announced extended warranties on products like refrigerators and washing machines. The brand is also offering exciting promotions across its range, and flexible financing options, including no-cost EMIs and zero down payments.

Kamal Nandi, Business Head and Executive Vice President of Godrej Appliances, commented on the initiative, saying, “At Godrej Appliances, we believe in offering not just superior products but also unmatched service and customer value. Our honest-offer of 5-year comprehensive warranty on Split Air Conditioners is a significant step in ensuring that our customers can enjoy long-term comfort with complete peace of mind, free from any hidden costs.”

In addition to the campaign, Godrej Appliances is also offering an array of AI-powered appliances designed to optimize performance and enhance convenience, high-capacity models across segments tapping into the premiumisation trend and new attractive designs for consumers to pick from.

Brightsun Travel Hosts Mental Health & Stress Management Workshop to Mark World Mental Health Day

Gurugram, October 9th, 2024 – In recognition of this year’s World Mental Health Day, Brightsun Travel organized an in-depth workshop focused on mental health and stress management in the workplace. Held in collaboration with CoachForMind, a leading mental wellness platform, the workshop aimed to equip employees with practical tools to manage stress, improve mental clarity, and cultivate a supportive and balanced work environment.

The workshop, facilitated by licensed psychologists from CoachForMind, included immersive, activity-based sessions designed to deepen participants’ understanding of mental health issues, reduce stigma, and prioritize well-being. The interactive session provided employees with hands-on strategies to boost emotional resilience, alleviate work-related stress, and promote overall mental health.

Anju Sethi, Head of HR at Brightsun Travel, emphasized the company’s commitment to fostering a mentally healthy workplace: “At Brightsun Travel, we understand that mental well-being is essential for employee productivity and satisfaction. This workshop aligns with our vision to create a work environment where mental health is valued and supported. We hope this initiative empowers our team to manage stress more effectively and foster positive mental health habits.”

The workshop was conducted in three engaging sessions at Brightsun Travel’s office, each lasting 45 minutes. The session covered a wide range of topics, including emotional well-being, mindfulness practices, and methods for managing work-life balance. CoachForMind’s approach combines traditional therapy with modern psychological techniques, offering a unique experience for participants.

Rachita Kanwar, Counselling Psychologist from CoachForMind added: ” Mental health is much more than the absence of mental illnesses; it’s about maintaining emotional balance and building resilience. Our workshop was designed to provide employees with evidence-based tools that help them navigate daily challenges and maintain a positive mental outlook.”

Brightsun Travel remains committed to promoting mental wellness within the company and supporting employees in both their personal and professional development. By organizing events like these, the company strives to raise awareness of mental health issues and foster a culture of openness and support.

Hexnode appoints Allen Richard as Country Head of Global Strategic Alliances for the India & SAARC region

San Francisco, California, 9th October 2024: Hexnode, the enterprise software division of Mitsogo Inc., has named Allen Richard as the Country Head of Global Strategic Alliances for the India & SAARC region. In his new role, Allen will focus on establishing strategic partnerships and strengthening Hexnode’s market position, fostering mutually beneficial relationships, and securing key sponsorships at a global level.

Allen is an accomplished sales leader with over 18 years of experience in technology sales and marketing competencies. He brings extensive expertise in leading sales & cross-functional teams and managing business units across IT/ITES, BFSI, and Manufacturing industries. Prior to joining Hexnode, Allen held the position of Regional Segment Head at Sify Technologies, where he successfully generated $10 million in revenue. Previously, he held prominent position with Cloud4C Services as AVP- Cloud Sales and as Deputy General Manager at Tata Communications, he played a key role in driving $200 million in revenue growth.

Hexnode, with over a decade of experience in the UEM industry, empowers businesses to securely manage and protect their diverse range of devices from a single, centralized platform. Hexnode offers a comprehensive platform to streamline device management, enhance security, and boost productivity. The product currently supports major platforms, including Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, Fire OS, and tvOS.

“Allen brings a sophisticated, innovative, and energetic approach to driving business transformation with our strategic partners in India. Allen’s extensive experience in building alliances with GSI, ISV, Telco, and consulting partners through consultative engagements will be instrumental in driving Hexnode’s next phase of growth in the region,” said Vikas Bakshi, Senior VP of Global Strategic Alliances at Hexnode.

Allen will oversee the development of go-to-market (GTM) strategies, collaborating closely with partners and establishing executive relationships. He will lead initiatives to enhance strategic partnerships and ensure successful outcomes in key markets across India & SAARC region.

Commenting on his new role, Allen Richard said, “I’m thrilled to join Hexnode, a company known for innovation and customer focus. As the Country Head of Global Strategic Alliances, I’ll drive sales & alliances initiatives across all defined Route-To-Markets, GTMs, and business initiatives. I look forward to forging strategic relationships with global partners to address the evolving challenges in device management and endpoint security.”

New Pastry Chef at Le Royal Monceau Unveils Stunning Chocolate Creation for Christmas

Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris welcomed the artistic talents of Yazid and Alexandre. As the new pastry chefs of the Palace, they were determined to create a sweet work of culinary art that was steeped in its history and architecture. Their search for inspiration led them to the Palace’s rich archives where the tale of the Red Marquise motivated them to design a Yule Log as their inaugural creation for this prestigious establishment.

Reminiscing the Red Marquise

The legendary Red Marquise is a tribute to the identity and soul of the Palace on Hoche Avenue. According to lore, the Marquise was a noble, enigmatic figure who resided in a luxurious suite, perpetually adorned in red—a hue that reflected her passionate spirit and unparalleled beauty. However, she remained an enigma, and her elusive nature mirrors the mystique spirit of the Palace itself.

This fascinating narrative captured the imagination of designer Philippe Starck. During the 2010 renovation, he resurrected the iconic Red Marquise that graces the Palace’s entrance as a symbol of its heritage. While the reality of the Marquise’s existence may spark debate, her legacy continues to enchant, enriching the Palace’s alluring ambience.

Synchronizing a flavorful symphony

The Yule Log at Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris is a stunning architecture of tradition and modernity. A base of chocolate biscuit supports a light chocolate mousse, infused with farm milk and the fragrance of festive spices, encasing a luscious heart of caramel and praline.

Adorned with intricate chocolate embellishments, a central silver medallion proudly displays the emblem of the Parisian Palace – a hallmark of prestige and artisanal excellence. The Marquise, fashioned to resemble wrought iron artistry, delicately sits atop the glossy glaze of the Log, embodying the distinctive architectural elegance of the hotel.

Rooted in legend, this nouveau Yule Log unfolds a gourmet tapestry where each bite invites a nostalgic journey through the essence of the holiday season.

Ordering this delightful dessert experience

From November 1, pre-orders will commence with a 24-hour collection facility
From November 15 to December 31, a Click and Collect service will also be offered
Please note that the dessert is gluten-free but contains nuts, lactose, and traces of soy

Persistent Achieves Carbon Neutrality a Year Ahead of Target

October 9, 2024 Pune, India
Persistent Systems , a global pioneer in Digital Engineering and Enterprise Modernization, today announced that it achieved carbon neutrality for Scope 1 (direct emissions) and Scope 2 (indirect emissions) across its global operations for FY23-24, one year ahead of schedule. Verified by DNV Business Assurance India Private Limited, this milestone underscores the Company’s commitment to sustainability and its role in supporting clients’ environmental goals. Aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and global efforts to limit planet warming to 1.5°C and reach net-zero emissions by 2050, it further solidifies Persistent’s reputation as a socially responsible enterprise.

 Persistent’s carbon management plan focuses on enhancing energy efficiency through investments in renewable energy and the development of energy-efficient infrastructure, certified by the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). The Company has made significant strides in renewable energy adoption and resource management:

•  42% reduction in emissions through two windmills (2.1 MW each) and 2 MW solar rooftops.
• 39% of total energy usage globally from renewable energy sources, with 44% in India.
• 16% of renewable energy needs are met through self-generated Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) from its windmills.
• 45% of purchased International Renewable Energy Certificates (I-RECs) cover leased and overseas facilities.
• 99% recycling of waste generated across operations.
• 121,035 trees contributing to carbon sequestration.
• 28.3% reuse of treated wastewater in owned campuses within its facilities.

 Additionally, to offset Scope 1 emissions, Persistent has invested in high-quality carbon credits certified by VERRA, while reducing Scope 2 emissions through renewable energy sourcing and the purchase of I-RECs.

 Persistent is committed to driving renewable energy adoption, optimizing energy use, and working with communities to address climate change. By collaborating with employees and stakeholders, the Company embeds sustainability at the core of its operations, ensuring long-term impact. Moreover, Persistent’s investments in renewable energy projects and carbon offset programs aim to reduce emissions and support environmental initiatives, with a goal to achieve net-zero emissions across its value chain by 2050, following the Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) roadmap.

 Dhanashree Bhat, Chief Operating Officer, Persistent

 “As the world faces increasing environmental challenges, we recognize our responsibility to contribute to a sustainable future. Our commitment to ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) issues goes beyond the regulatory requirements — it is a strategic, transformative journey aimed at delivering long-term value for our clients, communities, and the environment. Achieving carbon neutrality for our Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions is a critical milestone on our path to reaching net-zero by 2050. By aligning with the GHG Protocol and the Science-Based Targets Initiative, we are ensuring that our approach is both science-based and comprehensive, enabling us to effectively reduce our environmental footprint across all emission sources and contribute to global sustainability efforts.”

 Sandeep Kumar Mohanty, Partner, PricewaterhouseCoopers Services LLP

 “Persistent achieving carbon neutrality is a significant achievement, especially in the current global context where environmental sustainability is a pressing need. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, businesses playing a proactive role in reducing their carbon footprint are crucial. By prioritizing renewable energy and adopting comprehensive carbon offset programs, Persistent demonstrates dedication to environmental responsibility and long-term sustainability.”

Medica Superspecialty Hospital hosts insightful panel discussion on ‘Challenges Related to Disability & Mental Health’

9th October’24, New Delhi: Medica Superspecialty Hospital hosted an engaging panel discussion on “Challenges Related to Disability & Mental Health’, prion to the World Mental Health Day’24. Special guest Dr. Andrew Fleming, British Deputy High Commissioner, Kolkata offered valuable insights during the discussion. The panel also featured key contributions from Mr. Ayanabh Debgupta, Regional Chief Operating Officer, Manipal Hospitals East; Dr. Ushasi Banerjee, Senior Clinical Psychologist at Manipal Hospital, Mukundapur; Ms. Sohini Saha, Consultant Psychologist,Medica Superspecialty Hospital; and Ms. Arunima Datta, Psycho-oncologist,Medica Superspecialty Hospital, who shared their perspectives on this crucial topic.

Dr. Andrew Fleming, during his speech, expressed, ” In sharing my journey through the challenges of neurodiversity and mental health, from my early struggles with undiagnosed dyspraxia and dyslexia to facing marginalization in both educational and professional settings, I emphasize upon the critical need for understanding, support, and inclusivity. These conditions are often misunderstood or overlooked, yet their impact on individuals is profound. We must break down the barriers of stigma and create environments—both in education and the workplace—that not only accommodate but recognize and embrace the unique strengths of neurodiverse individuals. True progress lies in fostering equity, offering reasonable adjustments without assumptions, and building robust support systems that ensure every individual can thrive, regardless their disability or mental health challenges. Together, we must move beyond mere awareness and actively work toward creating inclusive spaces that champion diversity in all its forms.”

Mr. Ayanabh Debgupta, shared, “We have embarked on a transformative journey in mental health care, recognizing the critical role the mind plays in the healing process. We integrate psychological support at every stage of treatment, starting before surgery and continuing throughout the patient’s recovery. With dedicated team members like Ms. Arunima Datta, Dr. Ushasi Banerjee Ms. Sohini Saha, and others, the mental health departments across all Manipal Hospitals in the city are providing holistic care for children and adults. Our commitment extends beyond hospital walls as we actively engage with the community to raise awareness about mental health and foster a culture of well-being. Healthcare is a stressful environment, not just for patients but also for the caregivers, and we have implemented programs to ensure our team members are equipped to manage this stress while delivering the highest standard of care.”

Pernod Ricard India Breaks Ground on Asia’s Largest Malt Distillery in Nagpur

Maharashtra, 9 October 2024 – Pernod Ricard India, a worldwide leader in the spirits and wine industry, has marked a momentous occasion with the Bhoomi Pujan ceremony, (a traditional ground-breaking ritual), for setting up its largest malt distillery and maturation facility in Asia, to be situated in Butibori, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India. This is a significant first-step in the realization of the company’s Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Maharashtra, signed on 23 February 2024. This landmark MoU further underscores Pernod Ricard’s commitment to India, backed by a projected investment of up to INR 1785 crore over a span of 10 years.

Since the MoU’s signing, Pernod Ricard India has already committed about INR 100 crore, including land costs, as an essential first step in advancing the project. The company has already made notable progress on operational and construction planning. The design and layout of the facility has been finalized. These efforts align with the goals outlined in the MoU. The project envisages the establishment of end-to-end capabilities for producing world-class malt spirit in India and the creation of the largest malt plant in Asia, with a production capacity of up to 13 million pure alcoholic liters annually.

Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Devendra Fadnavis, stated, “Pernod Ricard India’s decision to invest in the establishment of Asia’s largest malt spirit distillery and maturation facility in Maharashtra underscores India’s growing stature on the global economic stage. This landmark project will significantly contribute to local employment, providing job opportunities for hundreds of individuals while fostering skill development and entrepreneurship. It will drive economic growth, benefiting farmers and various sectors, aligning perfectly with our vision for a dynamic, diversified, and self-reliant economy.”

Jean Touboul, CEO of Pernod Ricard India, remarked, “The Bhoomi Pujan ceremony is a significant milestone that highlights our unwavering dedication to India’s growth story. This facility will benefit from Pernod Ricard’s rich heritage in producing premium spirits. We are proud to be at the forefront of this transformation, contributing to the economic and social prosperity of Maharashtra and beyond. Our vision is to shape a sustainable future, where India emerges as a hub for premium malt spirits crafted with global precision and local passion.”

The project is poised to generate direct employment for 700 to 800 people, with indirect job opportunities expected throughout the region. It will also provide farmers with new avenues to cultivate high-quality barley, thereby improving their livelihoods and contributing to agricultural diversity. Additionally, the initiative focuses on skill development and fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation within local communities.

Pernod Ricard India is dedicated to implementing sustainable practices at every stage of this facility’s operation. The facility will use 100% renewable electricity, biomass from agricultural waste, and adopt water-positive measures to minimize its ecological footprint. This commitment supports the company’s vision of establishing India as a hub for innovative malt-based heritage brands, catering to both Indian consumers and global markets.

ROHL reimagines the mid-market hotel with ‘Regenta Place’, its 5th property in Jaipur

Bengaluru, 09th October 2024 Leading hospitality chain Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd. (ROHL) today announced its 5th property in Jaipur and 10th in Rajasthan while debuting its reimagined midscale brand-Regenta Place. Donning a fresh identity and design language, Regenta Place Jaipur aims to disrupt the value-driven mid market space through a dynamic combination of vivacious social spaces, cutting-edge technology, and quirky décor.

Arjun Baljee, President of ROHL said, “We are delighted to create a distinct visual identity for “Regenta Place”. This will help us further create a clear distinction in our portfolio of properties, both for our owners and for our guests. By focusing on a modern aesthetic to local design, we hope to create a brand that is relevant to the micro-market it operates in. Over a period of time, we hope to roll this out across the platform of Regenta Places, so that they are consistent with the broader vision of providing fresh and vibrant spaces to young and modern travellers.

“The new property serves as a testament to our ongoing dedication to consistently innovating and remaining relevant in the industry. In the near future, the travel and hospitality industry will be significantly influenced by the increasing emphasis on experience-driven travel by Gen Z and Millennials. However, the moderate-tier segment of the Indian hospitality industry is distinguished by a visible service gap. The rebranding of Regenta Place is a step in the direction of creating a niche brand that can align the aspirations and budget considerations of young Indian travellers without compromising on the quality of their stays”, Mr. Baljee added.

Accommodation at the 40-key hotel is thoughtfully furnished with functional amenities and decorated to reflect a contemporary yet quirky look. To meet the discerning needs of younger and more enthusiastic clientele, the hotel has further curated its services and amenities. The signature all-day Pinxx Café has been designed to be the third space for guests, with small fun bites round the clock and spaces to work and dine at the same time. The vibrant rooftop bar, Kat’s Bar, provides guests with an ideal environment to relax and unwind in the land of Kings, with a panoramic view of the city on the golden horizon. The space transitions into the most spectacular sundowner venue assuming an entirely new character at dusk, making it an inviting hub for socialising and immersing against a stunning backdrop. In addition, the hotel offers a state-of-the-art wellness centre and a gymnasium.

Of course, ROHL’s new Regents Rewards program is well integrated into this hotel, with a slew of amazing benefits for members, like member only rates, free experiences thrown in during the day, among other value-additions.

Jaipur is celebrated for its mesmerising culture and historical architecture and has seen significant growth in both tourism and infrastructure over recent years. This city is a quintessential tourist destination in India due to its architectural magnificence, intricate handicrafts, and scenic splendour, and a flourishing economy that is driven by industries such as textiles, gems, and tourism. The imposing Monsoon Palace, the tranquil Man Sagar Lake, the detailed Jagdish Temple, and the vibrant markets in the historic old city are amongst some of the most famous tourist attractions. Rajasthan as the largest state in the country has also become a prominent wedding destination in recent years for its different landscapes and architecture royalty.

Cybersecurity Leader Arctic Wolf Opens First India Office in Bengaluru to Accelerate its Platform innovations

Bengaluru, October 9, 2024 – Arctic Wolf®, a leader in security operations, today announced the launch of its first Indian global capability centre (GCC) in Bengaluru, Karnataka. The new India office location will play a pivotal role in scaling and advancing the Arctic Wolf platform, along with its entire suite of security operations solutions.

With Bengaluru, also known as the Silicon Valley of India, emerging as a global hub for technology and cybersecurity expertise, the centre will be pivotal to driving innovation, product development, and enhancing the company’s security operations platform. This expansion positions the company to benefit from around-the-clock development capabilities and closer proximity to clients in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region, setting the foundation for future growth in these markets.

“Our mission is to end cyber risk for organizations of all sizes, and the research and development work that will happen out of India will be a major enabler in furthering this goal,” said Dan Schiappa, chief product and services officer, Arctic Wolf. “By tapping into the highly skilled workforce in Bengaluru, we aim to further accelerate the development of advanced machine learning models and AI-driven cybersecurity detections within our platform, providing our customers with unparalleled protection against evolving cyber threats.”

The GCC plans to create numerous job opportunities, contributing to employment in India and attracting top-tier talent in India’s IT and cybersecurity sectors. Arctic Wolf plans to hire 150 employees by mid-2025, with recruitment focused on roles in core research and development areas including threat intelligence, and AI, while service delivery roles will continue to be staffed out of North America and Europe.

Speaking on the expansion, Jeff Green, senior vice president, research and development, Arctic Wolf: “The launch of Arctic Wolf’s first Global Capability Centre in Bengaluru is an exciting milestone for us. This centre will allow us to build a dedicated team focused on advancing cybersecurity innovations, while also fostering collaboration across our global operations. We’re committed to leveraging India’s strong technical expertise and pedigree of innovation to support core areas of our future product development. I am eager to see the unique perspectives and skillsets that our team here will bring to further elevate Arctic Wolf’s solutions and enhance our ability to protect organizations worldwide.”

Aditya Birla Group’s Indriya expands its footprint with their third store in New Delhi

Delhi, 9th October 2024: Aditya Birla Group’s jewellery brand, Indriya, opens its third store in New Delhi. The group has opened eight stores since its launch in July—three in Delhi, and one each in Indore, Ahmedabad, Pune, Mumbai, and Jaipur. With the new store in Rajouri Garden, New Delhi, the Group is further strengthening its consumer portfolio, leveraging its strong brand equity and deep market insights.

Delhi, India’s historical and political heart, is renowned for its thriving jewellery market and deep-rooted appreciation for craftsmanship. For Indriya, the capital offers a unique platform to engage with a discerning and culturally rich consumer base in one of the nation’s most dynamic regions. By merging time-honoured designs with modern trends, Delhi provides a vibrant environment for jewellery retail, making it the perfect setting to showcase exquisite artistry and innovative creations.

Mr Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairman of Aditya Birla Group launched Indriya in July with an aim to secure a position among India’s top three jewellery retailers over the next five years. This ambitious venture is backed by an unprecedented investment of Rs 5,000 Cr, underscoring the Aditya Birla Group’s commitment to revolutionising the jewellery retail landscape in India.

The brand name Indriya originates in Sanskrit, a language synonymous with the rich Indian culture. Simply put, Indriya means embodying strength and the power of the five senses, the senses which drive our consciousness, make us feel & explore the world around us, and define our being! The beautiful brand insignia is a Female Gazelle, is a metaphor for the senses and epitomizes the beauty and grace of a woman. The brand experience will indulge your senses in more ways than one and make your heart sing “dil abhi bhara nahi”!

Crafted with love, each piece reflects the spirit of Indian craftsmanship with over 16000 new designs in gold, polka, and diamond.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Dilip Gaur, Director, Indriya said, “Through Indriya, we are poised to redefine standards in creativity, scale, technology, and customer experience in the jewellery sector. It is built on the understanding that each piece of jewellery tells a unique story of craftsmanship. The distinctive product, exceptional customer experience and immersive buying journey are ultimately enablers to unlocking self-expression via jewellery. Our product fuses timeless craft but reimagines contemporary designs. Our regional selection celebrates unique backgrounds but opens them up for discovery across other cultures”.

Mr. Sandeep Kohli, CEO, Indriya said, ” Jewellery as a category is transitioning from mere investment to a statement. Our proposition is built on perceptible differentiation, distinctive designs, personalized service, and authentic regional nuances. At the heart of Indriya’s offering is the innovative Signature Experience with exclusive lounges. Customisation services with in-store stylists and expert jewellery consultants promise to elevate all five senses and create an unparalleled shopping journey. Our best-in-class digital front end will create a seamless experience across digital and physical touchpoints and herald the new age in jewellery retail.”